Ovulatoria

Ovulatoria is a term used in some languages to denote events related to ovulation. In English, the related adjective is ovulatory and the noun is ovulation. This article summarizes the biological process and its clinical relevance.

Ovulation is the release of a mature oocyte from a dominant ovarian follicle. It typically occurs mid-cycle, but timing varies among individuals. The ovarian cycle begins with follicular growth under follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). As the dominant follicle matures, it produces increasing amounts of estrogen, which, in turn, triggers a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). The LH surge induces rupture of the follicle and release of the oocyte. The ruptured follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone (and some estrogen) to prepare the endometrium for possible implantation. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, progesterone falls, and menstruation begins.

Detection and clinical relevance: Fertility awareness methods track ovulation by changes in basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and in some cases ovulation predictor kits that detect LH in urine. Clinically, evaluating ovulatory function is important in fertility workups. Anovulation (lack of ovulation) or oligo-ovulation (rare ovulation) are common causes of infertility and can be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid disease, hyperprolactinemia, or hypothalamic dysfunction. Contraceptive methods often suppress ovulation or regulate its timing.

Notes: In humans, typically one oocyte is released per cycle; multiple ovulations can occur occasionally, increasing the chance of fraternal twins.